Restaurants - Nags Head
When visitors to Nags Head ask about the best place to eat, locals may hesitate. Don’t worry. It has nothing to do with the food served here. It’s because their brain immediately floods with countless choices from casual cooking to creative cuisine.
You can pick up a scrumptious deli sandwich and picnic on the beach or dine in award-winning restaurants. As the popular saying goes, “It’s all good.” Naturally you’ll discover plenty of seafood selections varying from traditional fried fish with slaw to tuna-, crab- and eel-filled Japanese dragon rolls. Warm up with Hatteras clam chowder, savor mesquite grilled tuna or fill up on steamers. Meat lovers will appreciate the local barbecue haunts and plentiful prime rib specials. From pizza to lobster, you’ll satisfy any morning, noon or night craving. Dining attire is your choice. It’s not unusual for casual clothing to be worn in fine dining establishments. This is the beach after all!
Remember that locals call Croatan Highway—aka U.S. Highway 158—The Bypass, and they refer to Virginia Dare Trail—aka N.C. Highway 12—as the Beach Road. Those simple names are just easier to remember!
Basnight’s Lone Cedar
- 7623 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head/Manteo Causeway
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-5405
- map
This Outer Banks landmark is where you’ll find many a local eating every night, so you know the food must be really good. This is also North Carolina’s favorite senator’s stomping ground. Senator Pro Tem Marc Basnight is known to greet customers at this family restaurant, and daughters Vicki and Caroline are also there to make sure your dining experience is exactly what you expected. This restaurant is at the top of the list of many locals’ favorite spots. The service is genuinely friendly, and the portions are more than generous. You’ll enjoy the vast views of the sound. Basnight’s serves brunch Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner seven nights a week beginning at 4:30 p.m. They feature only local, fresh North Carolina seafood that comes in whole and is cleaned in their kitchen, vegetarian dishes, pasta and steaks. Their dedication to freshness includes their own herb garden. They also serve local produce and pork as well as free-farmed chicken. And you will marvel at their incredible wine cellar (well, it’s a room, really) featuring thousands of bottles of wine. This accompanies a roomy bar area where you can enjoy the full menu. They also have Karaoke in the bar area Friday and Saturday nights. Each year, they close December 31 and re-open right before Valentine’s Day. Basnight’s also offers on and off-premise catering for any size or type of event.
Fatboyz Ice Cream & Grill
- 7208 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 16.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-6514
- map
This popular take-out food and ice cream stand serves up an array of ice cream concoctions—shakes, sundaes, cones—as well as hand-pattied burgers, fresh grilled tuna, hand-cut fries, Hebrew national hotdogs, chicken sandwiches, onion rings, fresh-squeezed orange/lime/lemonades and more. The ice cream is absolutely delectable! You can eat on-site at a handful of tables on the side deck. If you’re a veggie burger aficionado, get one here with all the fixings. And the owner makes delectable ice cream cakes for special occasions. They’re located across the street from Jennette’s Pier. Though the line if often long at this very popular spot, don’t despair! It moves very quickly.
Front Porch Cafe
- 2515 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 10
- Nags Head
- (252) 480-6616
- map
The Front Porch Café in Nags Head has moved! They outgrew their old location and are now in the new Food Lion Plaza just a block north of the old location. They are still a traditional community coffeehouse with deliciously fresh-roasted coffee, but the new store features additional seating and parking and a lounge/art space to relax and enjoy your coffee and the hand-painted mural by local artist Dawn Gray. They have live music on the new stage area, which doubles as a kids story time space during the summer, and of course some of the best artisan-roasted coffee on the beach. They serve an array of specialty coffee drinks, teas and chai, and fresh pastries like croissants, muffins, cinnamon buns and turnovers are baked on site. A wide variety of whole bean coffees are for sale. This is a great place to hang out—open year round with free wireless internet access, extended summer evening hours and a community bulletin board with local news and events. The Front Porch has two other locations, one in Kill Devil Hills at MP 6 and the other on the main highway in Manteo.
Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern
- 2316 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 10.5
- Nags Head
Kelly’s is an Outer Banks fine dining favorite serving beef, chicken, pasta, vegetarian dishes and of course seafood, including raw bar selections. You will enjoy their signature Sweet Potato Biscuits, featured in Gourmet Magazine and savored by the thousands. Kelly’s offers three different menus including one for children and lighter fare in the tavern. They will seat you for dinner until 10 p.m., so you won’t have to sacrifice having a good meal just because it’s late. You’ll want to save room for their delicious, fresh, homemade desserts. There is a separate yet full-service bar that presents nightly entertainment. You can reserve space for a private party in any of their rooms, including the tavern, or you can hire them for top-notch catering with or without wait staff service if you’d rather do it yourself and just enjoy their food. Kelly’s is open for dinner and entertainment year round, and the tavern is one of the top hot spots of the Outer Banks, attracting some of big names in the music industry. So if you want to see and be seen, put this one on your list.
Millers Waterfront Restaurant
- 6916 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 16
- Nags Head
One of the few soundfront restaurants on the beach, Miller’s serves lunch and dinner daily, which allows you ample time to enjoy the view. They can handle families and large parties and have a varied menu with fresh local seafood, steaks, chicken and creative salads and pastas. The kitchen prepares unique specials every day. They really do have one of the best sunset views, and you can have fun watching windsurfers and kiteboarders during the day or enjoying music and a cocktail in the evening. They have a pier and gazebo, which are a big hit too.
Owens’ Restaurant
- 7114 S Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 16.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-7309
- map
Owens’ is a Nags Head institution, featuring a legacy of fine dining by the sea since 1946. They delight diners with locally caught grilled, broiled, fried or sautéed seafood plus pasta dishes, prime rib, lobster and chowders and bisques. Homemade desserts top the fare. Enjoy an elegant dining experience or relax in the upstairs bar, which offers coffee drinks, beer, wine, mixed drinks and a full dinner menu.
Pamlico Jack’s
- 6708 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 16
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-2637
- map
After an extensive remodel, Pamlico Jack’s converted the old Penguin Isle to a casual restaurant experience with a pirate theme that’s fun for all. They’ve added tremendous deck space, some covered, to take advantage of the beautiful soundfront location and sunset views. The owner, head chef and management staff haven’t changed, and they still serve many of your favorite entrees from Penguin Isle, a coastal fusion-style showcasing lots of mesquite-grilled selections. Enjoy certified Angus beef, Gulf Stream fish and homemade pasta selections. They’ve also added a number of smaller plates and lighter fare such as delicious sandwiches and salads. Arrive before 6 p.m. to catch their early dining specials. They offer more than 400 different bottles of wine and will carry on with the legacy of being the Winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 20 years in a row. Pamlico Jack’s specializes in rehearsal dinners and weddings and can accommodate large gatherings—whether it’s your entire extended family for dinner or a 250-person party. A kid’s menu is available. Open for dinner nightly, they do accept reservations and are open March through December. Join them for entertainment three nights a week in their Pirate Ship outdoor bar.
Sooey’s BBQ and Rib Shack
- 3919 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 12.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 449-6465
- map
Sooey’s BBQ specializes in authentic eastern North Carolina pork barbecue, slow-smoked ribs, beef brisket, pulled barbecue chicken and Southern fried chicken. All the favorite homemade sides are here too, including potato salad, cole slaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, corn bread, onion rings and killer hushpuppies. Appetizers, wings, burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads and kids’ favorites are also available. You can sit down and eat in the restaurant, but Sooey’s excels at take-out, prepared family meals and catered events; call ahead for large orders. They also have locations in Corolla and Duck.
South Beach Grille
- 6806 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 16
- Nags Head
With a truly affordable menu consisting of local seafood, lots of signature salads, sandwiches, lettuce wraps, pasta dinners, Caribbean-inspired entrees, steaks and terrific homemade desserts, South Beach Grille is a great place to eat on the beach. Decktop dining is available with views of both the ocean and the sound, and you can enjoy a smoothie or a specialty drink from their full bar. Like wings? Then stop in on Friday and get wings in a variety of flavors for 25 cents, and you can wash’em down with their domestic beer special of the day. They have a good kids’ selection and offer lots of options for vegetarians too.
Sugar Creek Soundfront Seafood Restaurant
- 7340 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head/Manteo Causeway
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-4963
- map
Offering a primo location right on the water, Sugar Creek has been serving the freshest seafood available to locals and visitors for years. The views of Sugar Creek and the Roanoke Sound are incredible. The outdoor walkways and decks on the property are great for strolling along and viewing the resident wildlife. Before dinner, enjoy a drink from their outdoor gazebo bar — or, new this year, enjoy the outdoor dining deck. The fresh, local tuna, shrimp and scallops are expertly prepared at Sugar Creek and keep seafood lovers happy. Also on the menu are favorites like steaks, prime rib, chicken, ribs, pasta, salads, soups, burgers and sandwiches. Sugar Creek won the 2010 Taste of the Beach People’s Choice award for their Shrimp & Grits. They have a children’s menu. The newly expanded dining room easily accommodates large parties and special events like rehearsal dinners. Sugar Creek serves lunch and dinner daily in season and is open from March through December. Check out The Sugar Shack, located next door, for great take-out seafood and a quick bite.
Tortuga’s Lie Shellfish Bar and Grille
- 3014 N. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 11
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-RAWW
- map
The island interior and good food make Tortuga’s a local favorite. There are lots of healthy options here with Caribbean-inspired seafood and vegetarian options. Chow down on a variety of dishes including tuna bites, burritos, fresh steamed seafood and pasta. And, if there’s a special salad when you’re there, take our word for it and order it. Plus they have some of the best burgers and island fries on the beach, and their famous sushi night on Wednesdays is a huge hit. They roll sushi late night in the summer and during regular dinner hours in the off-season. There is a full bar with lots of specialty drinks including their notorious Shark Attack. Be sure to check out the beach volleyball court in the back! They are open daily for lunch and dinner with the hours changing in the winter.
Applebee’s
- 5000 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 14
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-3652
You’re probably already familiar with the affordable and delicious food Applebee’s serves. They have great trio appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, steaks and seafood on the menu. A full bar keeps the atmosphere lively. Applebee’s is open for lunch and dinner year round.
Beach Road Grill
- 2519 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 10.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 480-2228
Offering lunch and dinner year round, the Beach Road Grill’s menu features steamed seafood, wraps, sandwiches, soups and salads. The cozy atmosphere is a local favorite for a delicious, casual meal. Favorite appetizers include coconut shrimp, build-your-own quesadillas and stuffed jalapenos. The chef whips up daily lunch and dinner specials. Beach Road Grill has a full bar, and they offer live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights all year long.
Blue Moon Beach Grill
- 4104 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Surfside Plaza, The Beach Road, MP 13
- Nags Head
- (252) 261-BLUE
The Blue Moon Beach Grill is, in their own words, “a quirky, fun-filled dining experience,” and we couldn’t agree more, except to add the descriptions delicious, friendly and affordable. Family owned, they serve a great mix of Southern comfort food and creative lunch and dinner specials, like Caribbean pulled pork sandwiches and shrimp and grits. New in 2009, this small restaurant is a huge hit with the locals and continues to grow in popularity. They’re open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner with daily specials created by Chef Scott Shields. Wine and beer are served, and outside seating is available. A kid’s menu is also available.
Country Deli
- 4104 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Surfside Plaza, The Beach Road, MP 13
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-5684
This year-round take-out deli features lunch and dinner selections including a variety of sumptuous sandwiches such as grilled cheese and steak sandwiches. To quench your thirst, they also have a good selection of bottled beverages. Delivery is available and free within a specific area.
Dirty Dick’s Crab House
- 2407 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 10.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 449-CRAB
Dirty Dick’s is a fun-loving restaurant that serves up seriously good food. The menu pays homage to New Orleans and Louisiana cuisine with dishes such as seafood gumbo and Po Boys, but it also offers a vast array of classic seafood favorites, including the biggest variety of crab preparations we’ve ever seen. Steaks, chicken, pork, burgers, ribs, salads, unusual sides and appetizers and sandwiches round out the offerings. Check out their popular T-shirts and other merchandise. There is also a location in Avon.
Dune Burger Inc.
- 7308 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 16.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-2441
At Dune Burger you can enjoy fast food-style favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ, French fries and ice cream. What could be better in the summertime? This is a to-go stop only, but they do have a few picnic tables outside if you’d like to eat it there. Dune Burger is open for lunch and dinner from March to Thanksgiving.
Dunkin’ Donuts
- 2424 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 10.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 480-1629
Visit their two locations on the Bypass for coffee, breakfast/lunch sandwiches and of course…donuts. They serve breakfast all day, and they’re open 24-hours.
Grits Grill
- 5000 S. Croatan Highway, Outer Banks Mall, The Bypass, MP 14
- Nags Head
- (252) 449-2888
Grits Grill serves up breakfast foods all day along with huge fluffy biscuits and all the eggs, bacon and grit combinations you can imagine. They also have lunch standards such as hamburgers, sandwiches, soups and salads. They’re open year round from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Harbor Point Grill & Pizzeria
- 5000 S. Croatan Highway, Outer Banks Mall, The Bypass, MP 14
- Nags Head
- (252) 261-6800
Harbor Point has everything you crave including sub sandwiches, pasta, pizza and prime rib. They offer a late night menu and offer free delivery within Nags Head from 5 p.m. until they close.
I Love Coffee
- 4104 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Surfside Plaza, MP 13
- Nags Head
- (252) 715-0116
Situated on the beach road in the historic part of Nags Head, I Love Coffee has all the hot and cold, frozen and blended coffee drinks you can imagine. With a mixologist’s array of syrups, they have many creative concoctions to warm you up or cool you down. They also offer Breyer’s hand-dipped ice cream (because Breyer’s is made with just cream and sugar, no artificial ingredients), and reverse osmosis filtered water for your coffee or to drink. Regulars are encouraged to bring their own mugs and will receive a discount if they do. Their coffee beans are artisan roasted in Virginia, and the free Wi-Fi and a friendly atmosphere sweeten an already sweet deal.
Jockey’s Ribs Bar & Grill
- 3948 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 13.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-1141
Don’t let the name fool you, as this is a lot more than a barbecue place—though the barbecue is great! They have been family owned and operated since 1985, and their menu is large and varied, with something sure to satisfy everyone in your family. Their appetizers include some Southern favorites such as fried green tomatoes or fried pickles, and their entrees include fresh seafood and hearty meat selections like steaks and chops. There are specials daily, and they also offer creative salads and delicious homemade desserts. They are open for lunch and dinner.
Kentucky Fried Chicken / Taco Bell
- 7328 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Bypass, MP 16.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-3028
Grab a bucket of tried and true Kentucky Fried Chicken or some tacos and burritos and head to the beach. The ocean is just across the street! This restaurant is two in one, so it makes pleasing the entire family a breeze.
La Fogata
- 4933 S. Croatan Highway, The Bypass, MP 14.5
- Nags Head
- (252) 441-4179
La Fogata serves traditional Mexican favorites and specialties at this casual restaurant. Locals love it for offering tasty food at a good value. Within minutes of sitting down, you’ll have warm chips and yummy salsa to munch on while you look over the menu. There’s a full-service bar. They’re open for lunch and dinner.
Lucky 12 Tavern
- 3308 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 12
- Nags Head
- (252) 255-LUCK
This neighborhood-style tavern serves good quality food at great prices. Lucky 12 has fresh local seafood, hand-patted burgers, great New York-style pizza, authentic Buffalo chicken wings and boardwalk fries. Everything is fresh and well prepared, and the chef creates tasty daily specials. There’s a menu for kids. The dining room is open for lunch and dinner every day. The bar is a popular late-night hangout, with DJs spinning tunes often during the summer, and you can order pizza until 2 a.m. The bartenders mix up Bushwackers, delicious frozen cocktails, using the recipe from Quagmires (a now-closed and missed oceanfront restaurant). They also have a good selection of beers and a martini menu. For entertainment there are pool tables, foosball and sports on TV including the popular NFL Sunday ticket. There is never a cover charge. Lucky 12 is open year round.
